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Anthonij Rupert Wines launches a room with a view... and a taste

Visitors to Anthonij Rupert Wines in Franschhoek can look forward to not one but two exquisite tasting rooms.

The Terra del Capo Tasting Room, situated at the entrance to the property, was designed to showcase the company's Italian-inspired Terra del Capo range. Wine aficionados can enjoy bespoke wine tasting experiences of the Cape of Good Hope and Anthonij Rupert Wine ranges in the original Manor House on the farm, restored to its former glory and now home of the Anthonij Rupert Wines Tasting Room.

The Terra del Capo range, described as a delightful, refined range of food-friendly wines, was originally developed by the late Anthonij Rupert, who not only believed that South African soils were well suited to growing Italian grape varietals but also had a love for Italy and the natural synergy between good food and wine.

Drawing on Franschhoek’s reputation for breathtaking scenery, award-winning wines and local produce-driven cuisine, the Terra del Capo tasting venue is informed by all the good things in life - what the Italians refer to as la dolce vita, or ‘the sweet life’ - and is set to transform wine tasting and food pairings into a relaxed, indulgent experience in elegant surroundings.

Glamorously refashioned by interior designer, Francois du Plessis Interiors, the venue invites complete relaxation and pure pleasure. Guests have a bird’s eye view of the activity in the bottling line through a glass wall, as well as panoramic views of the vineyards and mountains. A spacious counter for formal tastings is the focal point of the mezzanine-level tasting room, while intimate lounge areas to either side of this are ideal for wine tasting in a more leisurely, conversational style.

Situated below the tasting room is an antipasto bar, perfect for a quick lunch of freshly prepared local ingredients while lingering over a flight of wines or one perfect glass of wine. At the bar guests are treated to a daily spread of authentic and traditional antipasti plates, each reflecting the very best of locally sourced and artisanal ingredients from the Franschhoek Valley and surrounding Winelands, with the natural emphasis on fresh, organically grown vegetables, including aubergine, zucchini, bell peppers, artichokes and ripe tomatoes. Handmade farm cheeses and charcuterie, marinated olives and rustic artisan breads complete the picture.

The Manor House, home to the Cape of Good Hope and Anthonij Rupert Wine ranges, features beautiful wooden beam ceilings, yellow wood floors and spacious areas for entertaining, furnished throughout in the style of the mid-nineteenth century in the Cape. Well-known interior designer Graham Viney was commissioned for this project as he is renowned for favouring the Cape Heritage style. The rooms all feature carefully sourced items which include marble fireplaces, several antique furniture pieces as well as a beautiful collection of art depicting landscapes of the Cape during that period.

The front rooms lead out onto a veranda with breathtaking views of the Franschhoek Wine Valley, whilst the back porch displays views of the beautifully landscaped back garden with vistas onto the rose garden and the Groot Drakenstein Mountains. A carefully chosen herb garden, showcasing some of the country’s best culinary and medicinal herbs, is situated to the side of the house.

The opening of these venues follows the acquisition last year of the farm bordering L'Ormarins - the original home of Anthonij Rupert Wines. The farm, formerly owned by Graham Beck Wines, is an ideal location for the new tasting facilities as it is easily accessible off the R45 route that leads into Franschhoek and is well suited to individuals and larger groups. It forms part of an existing complex that includes impressive red and white wine cellars and an extensive bottling plant.